House Counselor

Samaritan Daytop Village•Queens, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction, the House Counselor monitors the therapeutic environment and program systems to support the security, safety, and efficiency of daily client services and activities. The role ensures that scheduled treatment services and activities take place, external appointments are scheduled, carfare is available, and clients return safely and on time with feedback. The House Counselor coordinates program activities with the Assistant Directors of Operations and Clinical and, where applicable, the Assistant Program Director, in support of Samaritan Daytop Village’s mission and goals.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Some work experience, paid employment or internship, expressed interest in working with people affected by substance use or mental health concerns, or lived experience.
Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and EHR.
Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Within 90 days of hire, obtain FDNY certification as a Fire Drill Conductor, Fire Guard, or Fire Safety Coordinator for Downstate Residential locations.
Willingness to obtain CPR certification within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

Supervise and monitor the therapeutic environment, ensuring behavioral guidelines are followed, a therapeutic milieu is maintained, and interpersonal relationships remain positive.
Manage the daily program schedule and ensure scheduled events occur and participants attend.
Monitor the facility to ensure cleanliness, security, and safety practices; conduct mandated fire drills or evacuations as needed.
Administer breathalyzer tests and/or observe urine or oral specimen collection when clients return from appointments or other external activities, as needed.
Manage medications, including checking in medication and directly observing clients during medication pass for adherence to their prescribed regimens.
Conduct facility and safety runs and room checks to assess clients for possible alcohol or drug use and identify unsafe conditions in the care environment.
Conduct physical searches of clients as outlined by policy, including searches of bags, clothing, and the person; searches may use handheld metal detectors.
Under management direction, search rooms and personal property to help ensure a safe environment.
Review client appointments scheduled for assigned shifts and ensure trips are dispatched promptly.
Dispatch vehicles and ensure required agency paperwork is complete and accurate.
Distribute carfare for external appointments and review appointment escort selections for appropriateness.
Coordinate daily reporting of client attendance in accordance with DSS/HRA protocols and agency policy.
Comply with 42 CFR confidentiality requirements and HIPAA privacy and security regulations.
When Food Service Staff are absent, monitor the kitchen and food preparation for compliance with Board of Health requirements.
Perform other duties as requested.